RX’s history began in 1998. This was the time when ideas of several automobile classes was very interesting and actual and Lexus with its RX 300 model made a decision to unite practicality of a universal body with comfort and reputability of a trustworthy sedan.
This symbiosis became so successful that RX has been the company’s bestseller for long years. Initially the crossover was equipped with V6 of 5,28 pts 4-stepped automatic transmission and has been selling only in the USA. In the year of 2000 after a small external modernization (gitter, reverse lights, steering), the automobile was imported to Europe. RX’s second generation was released in 2003. RX appeared on the Russian market the same year. The appearance, interior trim were a bit changed, automatic transmission became five-stepped and V6 of 5,28 pints added more horsepower. In 2004 a new modification of RX 330 appeared with the engine of a little bit larger size. In 2005 together with this engine two electronic engines could successfully operate – RX 400h hybrid version appeared. After one more year the engine volume increased to 6,16 pints (276 hp, 342 Nm), and correspondingly the model got the designation RX 350.
ENGINE 2GR-FE
V6, capacity – 1 360,63 inches – updated and modernized version of 2GR-FE placed on RX 350 of the previous generation from 2005. Although the increase of measures is not so impressive (+1 hp and +4Nm), the main achievement is the fact that 90% of the peak torque is now achieved in the vast range of revolutions – from 2300 to 6100 revos. This happens thanking to the third generation system of input and output gas distribution phase control – Dual VVT-I (Variable Valve Timing). Aluminum is widely used in the engine construction. Cylinder block and inlet maniford, for example, are made of aluminum. Output system is significantly updated and simplified. Harmful emissions of V6 are reduced for 5 % in comparison with the previous model and the average fuel consumption makes up 10.6 l/62,14 mi. The engine became less vibroloaded and more quiet.
TRANSMISSION
Automatic Multimode transmission with six steps was used at first time. Although there was only one “extra” transmission, auto mode became more lightweight, for 13,23 lbs (209,44 instead of 222,67). This is one of the most lightweight and compact aggregates in the class. To make as much smooth and fast shifting as possible, and provide the possibility of adjusting to the manner of driving, the highly intelligent transmission is equipped with the whole range of electronic systems: ETCS-I (Electronic Throttle Control System-intelligent), Direct Downshift Control and AI-SHIFT (Artificial-intelligence shift control). Lexus’ second generation of four-wheel drive system is named Active Torque Control AWD. Its mass was also diminished for 35,27 lbs. On the basis of signals that come from different sensors (break system, speed, roll, steering wheel turn, etc.) the system in the AUTO mode chooses the optimal distribution of the torque moment between shafts – from 100:1 (on benefit of the front shaft) to 50:50. On speed less than 40 mi/hour LOCK mode is available, when the central differential is blocked in proportion 50:50. Cross-axle differential functions partially take upon themselves security and road holding systems VDIM and VSC.
SUSPENSORS AND STEERING
In a new generation Lexus RX 350 uses the brand new rear suspension of pendulum type on dual crossbars. Using of a “winged” metal made it possible to make it more lightweight and the compactness of the construction increased the volume of the baggage compartment. Everything is done for providing the crossover steerability and comfort of business-sedan. At the moment it is possible to state that RX 350’s behavior became more interesting and correct. This could happen thanking to the rear suspension, as the front suspension did not change much. But at the same time it was much modified due to the larger length of the wheel base and widening of wheelspan. Though turning ability staid unchanged – 18,70 ft. The brand steering with electrobooster EPS (Electronic Power Steering) helps to turn front wheels. It became more precise and apart from it helps to economize fuel.
